"I don't know we're as big as we've been around here for a while," Miller says. "We're going to have to try and use our speed, and maybe some mis-direction. We're going to have the option game at quarterback with Piercen (Harnish) in there. That'll be something we haven't had in a couple of years."

Stop 3 on day 2 of is football practices, Norwell, feeling good about themselves, and aiming to pick up momentum from.end.of last season

Harnish, brother of Indianapolis Colts quarterback Chandler Harnish, doubles as linebacker, too, and has become leader of the team. Harnish can expect help from his backfield mates, Will Gerber and Adam Nahrwahl, and wide receiver Reggie Hayes.

"We'd get down 14-0, and basically give up last year," Harnish says. "This year, if we get down 14-0, we keep fighting. That's what us leaders--juniors ande seniors--need to tell the younger guys."

Norwell has won only five games over the last three seasons, but have the talent and leadership to play like the playoff team from a year ago.

"If we keep our heads up, we can probably be a lot better," tackle Micahel Gresley says. It just depends on how people want to practice and play in the game."

The Knights open with reigning Allen County Athletic Conference Co-Champions, Leo, on Aug. 23.